Description
CARP RODS
Engineered Stability. Serious Performance.
The CTX range is built to cover the full spectrum of modern carp fishing, from intimate, close-quarters with the softer 2½lb tools, right through to genuine long-range capability with the S.U. models.
A complex, multi-stage manufacturing process blends Japanese 40t and 30t carbon with a resin content kept below 25%, creating a crisp foundation without unnecessary mass. The layers are wrapped alternately at 0° and 90° to enhance stability and hoop strength, then further reinforced with 3mm bi-axis carbon tape at 45°. This “X” structure produces blanks that are ultra-light and slim, but exceptionally strong—designed to stay true under load rather than wasting energy through twist.
That stability is more than a numbers game. With the blank less prone to bias and torsion, accuracy improves, and the rod recovers cleanly, translating power into repeatable casting rather than wobble. As with all Free Spirit carp rods, overfit joints are used because they allow the blank to bend more effectively, maintaining a smooth working curve through the transition from section to section.
Cosmetically, the X-Tape runs the length of the blank for a distinctive matt finish that’s free from paint or lacquer—helping resist sun bleaching while also reducing “flash” that can spook wary fish. Finished with Fuji DPS reel seats, stainless steel collars and butt cap, and ‘S’-Lite guides, CTX rods are designed to keep performing (and looking) right for years—without breaking the bank. The guides are ceramic-lined for durability and are equally at home with braided mainlines (as is popular abroad), fluorocarbon, or monofilament. That liner delivers an almost friction-free flow while protecting against wear caused by the ‘sawing action’ of the mainline through years of casting and retrieving.
Handle choice is equally considered. CTX rods are offered with abbreviated handles featuring a combination EVA and shrink rubber butt grip with a 10mm coned front EVA, or—across the majority of the range—a full cork handle with a 25mm flared front cone and a full cork rear handle for a classic feel during long sessions. Each rod is completed with a subtle copper-coloured whipping above the logo, adding a refined detail that complements the understated, matt aesthetic. Put simply, CTX is a serious performer whilst offering exceptional value for money—a combination that has helped the range earn multiple high-profile magazine awards.
40T / 30T
Multi-Layer Japanese Carbon Blend.
X-TAPE
Reinforced Stability. Clean Recovery.
Key Features
Constructed from low-resin 40t and 30t Japanese carbon with 45° bi-axis reinforcement, overfit joints and ceramic-lined ‘S’-Lite guides, delivering ultra-slim blanks, improved torsional stability and repeatable casting accuracy from close range to long-distance S.U. models.
Japanese 40t & 30t carbon with <25% resin for a stronger power-to-weight balance
Alternating 0°/90° wraps plus 45° 3mm bi-axis X-Tape for stability and reduced twist
Overfit joints for a more effective, continuous bending curve
Fast recovery and reliable accuracy, built with proven distance performance in mind
Matt, paint-free finish to resist bleaching and minimise rod “flash”
Fuji DPS reel seat, stainless fittings, and ‘S’-Lite guides for long-term durability
Ceramic-lined guides for near friction-free flow and long-term resistance to line wear
Handle options: abbreviated EVA/shrink with 10mm coned front EVA, or full cork with 25mm flared front cone
Stock build options
ABBREVIATED
Reel Seat & Hoods:
Fuji DPS18 with Silver Hoods
Guides:
Gunsmoke Framed ‘LS’ Ceramic
‘S’-Lite Lined
Tip:
Slimline LS Lined Tip ring
Hardware:
Stainless steel butt cap and collars
Short EVA front and rear butt grip with shrink
FULL CORK
Reel Seat & Hoods:
Fuji DPS18 with Silver Hoods
Guides:
Gunsmoke Framed ‘LS’ Ceramic
‘S’-Lite Lined
Tip:
Slimline LS Lined Tip ring
Hardware:
Stainless steel butt cap and collars
Flared full cork front and full rear cork
Recommendations
Lighter setups and more intimate fishing:
CTX 12’ 2½lb is the softer, more forgiving model in the range, ideal when cushioning, close-range control, and a more relaxed progressive feel matter most.
Codes: RCTXM533
A lighter all-round carp rod:
CTX 12’ 2¾lb is a versatile option for general fishing when you want a little more reserve than the 2½lb, while still keeping that responsive, easy-loading character.
Codes: RCTXM534 / RCTXM534FCF
The best all-rounder in the range:
CTX 12’ 3lb / 12’ 3lb – 50mm delivers balanced performance across the broadest spread of UK-style carp fishing, blending casting ease, control, and fish-playing confidence.
Codes: RCTXM572 / RCTXM572-50 / RCTXM572FCF / RCTXM572FCF-50
More authority for bags, bigger leads and tougher work:
CTX 12’ 3¼lb / 12’ 3¼lb – 50mm is the step up when you want extra reserve power without moving fully into a distance-focused tool.
Codes: RCTXM535 / RCTXM535-50 / RCTXM535FCF / RCTXM535FCF-50
Regular range and more powerful casting:
CTX 12’ 3½lb – 50mm is for anglers pushing further, fishing in stronger winds, or wanting a tighter, more powerful casting action.
Codes: RCTXM536-50 / RCTXM536FCF-50
Extreme range and full-compression casting:
CTX 12’ 3½lb S.U. – 50mm is the Special Utility model for maximum stability and power when you really want to hit the cast.
Codes: RCTXM537-50 / RCTXM537FCF-50
Extra reach with all-round strength:
CTX 12’ 6” 3¼lb – 50mm adds leverage, pickup, and line control, making it a strong choice for anglers who prefer a longer rod without losing versatility.
Codes: RCTXM538-50
Longer-length all-round power:
CTX 12’ 6” 3½lb – 50mm brings together extra leverage and a stronger casting action for broader all-round use on bigger venues.
Codes: RCTXM539-50
Long-range performance with added line control:
CTX 13’ 3½lb – 50mm is built for anglers who favour a longer rod for distance work, stronger pickup, and more effortless control on open water.
Codes: RCTXM540-50
Maximum range in the CTX family:
CTX 13’ 3½lb S.U. – 50mm is the longest-range tool in the range, designed for committed distance fishing where power, stability, and clean line flow matter most.
Codes: RCTXM541-50
